At a Glance
- Tasks: Support a Year 7 student with complex needs on a 1-1 basis and assist other SEND students.
- Company: Join St Dunstan's School, a highly regarded institution known for its inclusive ethos and strong community.
- Benefits: Enjoy free parking, pension scheme membership, and access to counselling services, plus meals available on-site.
- Other info: This is a temporary role during term time only, perfect for those looking to start a career in education.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while working in a supportive and dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience as a teaching assistant is preferred; enthusiasm and a commitment to inclusion are essential.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 28000 £ per year.
# Specialist Teaching AssistantEmployer: St Dunstan's SchoolLocation: Glastonbury, SomersetContract Type: Fixed term contractHours: Part TimeSalary: Grade 2 (SP4-5)Posted: 19th June 2026Expires: 2nd July 2026 11:59 PMStart Date: 1st September 2026Job ID: 1561339Job Reference: Teaching Assistant-EHCP042026* Share : LinkedIn Facebook X WhatsApp Email* Print**Location: St Dunstan's School****Start Date: ASAP****Closing Date: 2 July 2026****Hours: 32.5 hours per week, term time plus 5 inset days (FTC to August 2027)****Interview Date: To be confirmed****Salary: Actual £19,005 Grade 2 (SP4-5) (Full time equivalent £25,185 - £25,583)**This is a temporary position to support a named child, the role is funded via an Education, Health and Care Plan (EHCP).We are delighted to be able to advertise the role of Teaching Assistant. This role has been created with a primary focus of supporting a higher needs Year 8 on a 1-1 basis and acting as their key person, as well as providing support for other SEND students on occasion.The successful candidate will work under the direction of our SENDCo, teaching staff and school leadership to support students to access the curriculum and make progress, as well as to meet individual OT, SALT and care needs. This role would be ideal for experienced teaching assistants, looking for a new role and challenge. It would also be suitable for someone wishing to try a new role or begin working in education.**The successful candidate should be able to:*** Attend to the pupils’ personal needs, and implement related personal programmes, including social, health, physical, hygiene, first aid, OT, SALT and welfare matters, as appropriate.* Provide dedicated 1:1 support tailored to the individual needs of a pupil* Attend to the pupil’s personal care needs, including hygiene and toileting, and implement individual health, social, and care programmes if required* Liaise with a range of external professionals and follow their advice to ensure the student’s needs are met.* Encourage independence where possible, while maintaining a safe, structured, and nurturing environment.**The successful candidate should also be:*** Hard working and fully committed to the ethos of the school.* Organised and systematic.* Willing to undertake a Teaching Assistant Induction programme.* Committed to inclusion and able to advocate for an inclusive approach with colleagues and students;* Willing to undertake further ongoing specialist training as required by the needs of the young person;* Confident and have a basic knowledge of technology i.e. Microsoft Office, internet, email, use of photocopier etc.* Able to work independently showing initiative.* Have an ability to relate well to both children and adults.* Enthusiastic and willing to try new ideas, taking responsibility for new initiatives.* Someone with sky high expectations of students, whilst fully appreciating the need to provide encouragement and support to students of all abilities.* Capable of working with staff from all areas of the school, external agencies and partner schools.* Interested in continuing professional development.* An individual who is keen to contribute to the wider life of the school and enrichment.In return we can offer you the opportunity to work with motivated students, the full support of a dedicated and committed team of staff, a supportive induction programme and ongoing professional development, plus the opportunity to work in a developing school in a beautiful area of the South West.There are many advantages to working for us. Included in your actual annual salary is generous annual leave entitlement, access to a local government pension scheme, sick pay scheme, cycle-to-work scheme, free eye tests and employee assistance helpline. Support staff in schools can also benefit from a range of national discount schemes available to education professionals such as the Blue Light Card offering savings on shopping, travel, and leisure.This is an extremely successful inclusive school with a strong reputation in the area. In the most recent Ofsted in February 2024, inspectors praised the strong community ethos and relationships between staff and students based on clear expectations. Inspectors also celebrated our broad and ambitious curriculum, the prioritisation of reading and the support that is in place for all students to access the curriculum. (Ofsted Report- Link) Moreover, we continue to be very proud of the excellent progress our students make in their GCSE examinations. The school remains one of the highest performing schools in Somerset and is well-regarded by parents and the community.St Dunstan’s school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to references and a full Disclosure and Barring Service check. St Dunstan’s School is an equal opportunities employer. The campus is a no smoking site.Thank you for your interest in this post. We look forward to receiving your application. #J-18808-Ljbffr
Specialist Teaching Assistant in Glastonbury employer: St Dunstan's School
St Dunstan's School is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work environment where dedicated staff can thrive. With a strong commitment to professional development, employees benefit from ongoing training opportunities and a nurturing community ethos that prioritises student welfare. Located in the beautiful South West, the school provides excellent facilities, free on-site parking, and access to a comprehensive Employee Assistance Programme, making it an ideal place for those passionate about education and student support.
Contact Details:
St Dunstan's School Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Specialist Teaching Assistant in Glastonbury
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of the child you'll be supporting. Research common challenges faced by Year 7 students with complex needs and think about how you can address these in your role.
✨Tip Number 2
Connect with current or former teaching assistants to gain insights into their experiences. They can provide valuable tips on how to effectively support students with SEND and what to expect in the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your commitment to inclusion and professional development during any informal discussions or interviews. Be prepared to discuss how you've advocated for inclusive practices in previous roles or experiences.
✨Tip Number 4
Demonstrate your enthusiasm for working in a school environment by engaging with the school's community. Attend open days or events if possible, and express your genuine interest in contributing to the school's ethos and values.
We think you need these skills to ace Specialist Teaching Assistant in Glastonbury
Experience in supporting students with special educational needs (SEND)
Understanding of Education, Health and Care Plans (EHCP)
Personal care skills including hygiene and toileting
Ability to implement individual health and care programmes
Strong communication skills for liaising with external professionals
Encouragement of student independence
Organisational skills and systematic approach
Willingness to undertake ongoing specialist training
Basic knowledge of technology including Microsoft Office and email
Ability to work independently and show initiative
Strong interpersonal skills to relate well to children and adults
Enthusiasm for trying new ideas and taking responsibility
High expectations for student achievement and support
Collaboration skills to work with staff and external agencies
Commitment to inclusion and advocacy for diverse learners
Interest in continuing professional development
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially any work with children or in educational settings. Emphasise skills that align with the job description, such as personal care, communication, and support for students with special educational needs.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that specifically addresses the role of Specialist Teaching Assistant. Mention your passion for supporting students with complex needs and how your previous experiences have prepared you for this position. Be sure to include examples of your commitment to inclusion and advocacy.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications:If you have any qualifications related to education, child development, or special needs, make sure to mention them. This could include certifications, training, or workshops that demonstrate your readiness for the role.
Show Enthusiasm for Professional Development:Express your willingness to undertake further training and development in your application. Mention any past experiences where you sought out professional growth, as this aligns with the school's commitment to ongoing training for staff.
How to prepare for a job interview at St Dunstan's School
✨Understand the Role
Make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a Specialist Teaching Assistant. Familiarise yourself with the specific needs of the child you'll be supporting, as well as the general requirements for working with SEND students.
✨Show Your Commitment to Inclusion
During the interview, emphasise your commitment to inclusion and how you can advocate for an inclusive approach. Share examples from your past experiences where you've successfully supported students with diverse needs.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisational Skills
Highlight your ability to stay organised and systematic in your approach. Discuss any strategies or tools you use to manage your time effectively, especially when working with multiple students or tasks.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Be ready to discuss practical scenarios you might face in the role. Think about how you would handle personal care needs, liaise with external professionals, and encourage independence in students while maintaining a safe environment.
